Indoor vs. Outdoor TV Antenna

With few exception the chances of great TV reception success using an indoor antenna is slim. Some will disagree with me but that's the truth. The reason some may disagree with me is our definition of TV reception success is different.

My definition of TV reception success is when - all channels serving my area come in 24/7. Both VHF and UHF signals are received without interruption in the video or audio referred to as pixellation.

The definition of TV reception success of most people who disagree with me is - some channels may be received one day and not the next. Or the channels may all come in but drop out and pixellate interrupting the video and audio. This seems to happen in the middle of your favorite show.

Bottom line is this. In almost every situation a well designed outdoor TV antenna will outperform and provide better TV reception than a well designed indoor antenna.

Should I try an indoor antenna?

1. Is the indoor antenna location nearby to the transmitting antenna towers? Usually within 10 miles is required for an indoor antenna to have a chance at success.

2. Is the line of site from the indoor TV antenna to the transmitting antenna good? Is the signal path open? Or are there houses, buildings, hills etc... in the signal path that the signals must penetrate to reach your indoor antenna?

3. Can the TV signals penetrate the walls of your home. Building materials do block signal. The worst offenders are brick, drywall, any type of metal including aluminum, masonry and tile.

If the reception conditions are very good as described above an indoor TV antenna may be worth a try. I suggest you take a close look at the return policy before you buy. Chances are if your definition of TV antenna reception success is the same as mine you won't be happy with an indoor antenna.